Our Philosophy & Values
This page is intended to help make a more intelligent decision regarding your participation in any of our tours.
I am fascinated by the vast contrasts between Japanese and North American cultures, and I have learned a great deal as I have examined these differences. I enjoy expanding my palate’s horizons. Japanese cuisine offers outstanding possibilities in this regard, and can be pleasingly provocative to Western tastes. I am learning to temper my love of good food with a growing sensitivity to respecting my body. Typical Japanese eating patterns support me in this process. (However, do not take this to mean that over-eating will be easy to avoid in Japan!)
I am happy when overnight accommodations are comfortable, safe, and clean. I place a higher value on rich experiences than on extremely luxurious accommodations. That being said, on our private tours offer the option of staying in some very fine hotels. I place great value on adequate preparation by those who join my tours. Such preparation is both physical and mental. Physical preparation includes some form of regular exercise (walking is great) for several weeks prior to departure; it is important because a) jet lag can be very taxing, and b) our tours often include a lot of walking. Mental preparation can include reading about cultural differences, and acquiring knowledge about specific elements of the itinerary. The goal is to minimize any prejudices which may arise from ignorance, and create excitement and anticipation regarding the experiences ahead.
I seek to build my life on a foundation of gratitude and positive expectations. I desire traveling companions who share this outlook. I believe we are profoundly privileged to live in such a wonderful and amazing world. By traveling together I believe persons of good will become catalysts for love, hope, and joy, and ambassadors for peace and healing.
– Steve Adelsman, Owner, AdelsmanTours, LLC
Contact Us
*Please note: we offer Land-only tours; you are responsible for getting to and from Japan. Also, please note some tours may begin in Osaka and end in Tokyo. Please call Steve if you have questions about this. Steve (or one of his associates) will meet you as you emerge from Customs at the Airport on the Tour Commencement Date. Flights from North America always depart a day earlier, since you “lose a day” crossing the International Date Line. If you are considering arriving at or departing from Haneda Airport (HND), or have other plans for arriving in Japan, please discuss this with Steve as early as possible. Some flights into Haneda arrive at very inconvenient times (which is probably one reason they are sometimes cheaper).Please read our Terms & Conditions before committing to any tour.